Dog Insurance Bills Defeated in California, Muzzled but Still Barking in New York

A legislative effort to mandate coverage for canines has been derailed in California, while another effort in New York has stalled. In California, a bill...

May 11, 2004

A legislative effort to mandate coverage for canines has been derailed in California, while another effort in New York has stalled. In California, a bill (AB 2399) that would have prohibited insurers from refusing to issue or renew homeowner policies based upon the breed of dog residing in a dwelling was defeated in the state Assembly Insurance Committee. Meanwhile in New York, a large outcry from pet owners prompted sponsors of a bill (A 10169) which would have required owners of dogs of any breed to have liability insurance through their homeowners' or renters insurance, to redraft it removing the liability requirement. Another bill (A 6761), similar to the one defeated in California, was introduced in New York.